Wednesday, April 23, 2025

25 ZAMBOANGA CITY Vacationer Spots & Issues to Do


Every time we’re requested what our favourite native locations are, we at all times embody Zamboanga Metropolis within the record. And virtually at all times, we get a one-word follow-up query delivered with loads of curiosity — “Why?”

In my circle of pals, I can depend with my fingers those that have set foot on this nook of Mindanao. However what’s in Zamboanga? Why must you go to? As one of many largest city hubs within the Philippines by way of land space (and inhabitants), Zamboanga Metropolis is brimming with sights which might be price going the gap.

BlogDisclaimer

Zamboanga Metropolis’s journey scene has been growing quick over the previous few years. It’s, in any case, Area IX’s major gateway. Excursions have gotten extra organized. Promotion of town has been relentless, particularly after journey restrictions have eased. Most vacationers flock to the islands and the seashores, however the native meals scene is steadily drawing in additional guests, too.

The crew has been to Asia’s Latin Metropolis 5 occasions already, however every time we felt like there was nonetheless extra to see and uncover!

If you happen to’re interested in what awaits you there, right here’s a full rundown of the issues to do and locations to go to in Zamboanga Metropolis.


WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Pink Seaside (Sta. Cruz Grande Island)

Off the coast of Zamboanga Peninsula lies an island that, when kissed by the solar, glows with a pure rosy blush. Hailed by the Nationwide Geographic as one of many World’s 21 Finest Seashores in 2017, Pink Seaside is Zamboanga Metropolis’s hottest vacationer attraction.

Pink Beach ZamboangaPink Beach Zamboanga

To handle your expectations, the pink hue isn’t vivid or shiny. From afar, the sandy shore seems like the standard white seaside, however the nearer you get, the pink taint turns into extra obvious. The sand’s pale pink tint is the results of the weathering of the pink organ-pipe corals (tubipora musica) that had been dropped at the shore by the waves.

Punctuating the southeastern aspect of the peninsula, Zamboanga Metropolis’s Paseo del Mar is the primary jump-off level to the island and its Pink Seaside. Guests can rent a tricycle from town heart to Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal in Paseo del Mar. The boat trip takes about 20 minutes.

Santa Cruz Grande Island Pink BeachSanta Cruz Grande Island Pink Beach

As a result of the variety of guests is strictly regulated, you might want to register prematurely earlier than going. Registration and boat service begin at 7:00 AM. In a single day keep just isn’t permitted and solely day excursions are allowed. For slot reservations and queries, it’s possible you’ll contact the administration by way of any of the next:

  • E-mail: islasdesta.cruz@gmail.com
  • Landline: +63 62 9756341
  • Workplace: Turismo Native de Zamboanga, Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga Metropolis
  • Fb Web page: Turismo Zamboanga
  • Official Web site: www.destinozamboanga.com

Boat price is P1000, good for as much as 10 passengers. In case your group is smaller, you’ll nonetheless have to pay the identical quantity.

Soar-off Level: Paseo del Mar (Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal)
Day Tour Schedule: Day by day, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.
Environmental Price: P20 + P5 (Terminal Price)
Boat Charges: P1000/boat (good for as much as 10 pax)
Cottage Rental Price: Small (10 pax), P100; Medium (15 pax), P200; Pavillion (30 pax), P500


Mangroves Boat Tour (Sta. Cruz Grande Island)

Whereas Grande Santa Cruz Island allures with its pink radiance, its magnificence goes past appearances. It additionally retains a trove of pure wonders. On the opposite aspect of the island is a lagoon totally adorned with mangroves, nourishing wildlife and selling biodiversity.

Santa Cruz Grande Island Lagoon ZamboangaSanta Cruz Grande Island Lagoon Zamboanga

The lagoon truly dominates the entire island, occupying a lot of the floor. One of the simplest ways to discover it’s to take a guided boat tour. As your boatman paddles, a information will lead you to various spots to clarify simply how essential it’s to guard this web site. You’ll study in regards to the kinds of mangroves and meet upside-down jellyfish. Don’t fear, they’re not harmful in any respect. They’re nearly stingless. However please don’t get them out of the water.

To hitch a lagoon boat tour, inform the boatmen that introduced you to Pink Seaside that you simply wish to discover the lagoon. They may take you to a small group close to the doorway to the lagoon. This switch will price you a further P300.

Right here, you’ll be transferring to a smaller “yellow boat.” Rental of every yellow boat prices P300, good for 2 (2) passengers. Any given boat will likely be accompanied by two paddlers, every from a special household. (It’s a means of constructing positive everybody locally advantages from this system.)

Tour information price is P300. A tour information can lead as much as 5 (5) boats. You may crew up with different boats so you would cut up the information price.

Necessary: you may solely prepare a tour earlier than 12 midday! They received’t be accepting any reserving past that point. Please observe the principles and laws when exploring. The Grande Santa Cruz Island, along with the smaller Little Santa Cruz Island, is a protected space.

Right here’s a abstract of the lagoon tour expense.

Boat to Yellow Boat Tour Soar-off: P300/boat (as much as 10 pax)
Yellow Boat Rental: P300/boat (good for two pax)
Tour Information Price: P300 (good for as much as 5 boats)


Vinta Rowing

The vinta is the standard outrigger boat that’s frequent in Mindanao, particularly within the areas of southern Mindanao, Sulu archipelago, and the Zamboanga peninsula. It’s well-known for its vividly colourful rhombic sail, including a splash of shade to the waters of Sulu Sea.

Zamboanga VintaZamboanga Vinta

The vinta performs an essential function within the livelihood of the locals — economic system, commerce, and transportation. It’s traditionally used as a fishing vessel. In the present day, it additionally serves as a mode of transportation for individuals, as a cargo vessel to ship merchandise/items, and as a vacationer attraction.

If you wish to expertise rowing or driving a vinta, it’s possible you’ll constitution one in any of the barangays alongside town’s coastlines or you are able to do it while you go to Grande Santa Cruz Island.


Little Sta Cruz Island & Sandbar

Sitting northwest of Santa Cruz Grande Island, Little Santa Cruz Island is sort of a fast sprint of paradise off the coast of the Zamboanga peninsula. Essentially the most recognizable characteristic of the island is the sandbar trailing on the easternmost level.

Little Santa Cruz Island Sandbar ZamboangaLittle Santa Cruz Island Sandbar Zamboanga

Though the island is fringed with truthful sand, it’s a combination of nice and damaged shells and corals. There are small lagoons, however vacationers will not be allowed to enterprise past sandbar. The encircling waters are principally deep, sea-grass-covered, and will not be advisable for leisure swimming.

Guests are solely allowed to remain right here for 10 minutes. However in the event you actually wish to make a cease right here, a detour will price you a further P300. However this fee is per boat and might accommodate as much as 10 passengers.

Soar-off Level: Paseo del Mar (Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal)
Boat switch from Grande Santa Cruz: P300/boat (good for as much as 10 pax)
Tour Information Price: P100 (good for as much as 10 pax)


A steadily rising vacationer attraction is As soon as Islas (11 Islands), a string of islands and islets off the japanese coast of Zamboanga Metropolis. Not all islands are open to the general public, however these which might be accessible are nice for swimming, sunbathing, and additional exploring. There are designated snorkeling spots for many who wish to take a peek into the underwater scene. Bisaya-Bisaya, Baung-Baung, and Sirommon are these which might be accessible to the general public.

The islands are solely open for day journeys. A restrict of 200 guests per day is applied, so advance registration is required. You might want to guide on-line by way of onceislas@gmail.com at the least someday earlier than your deliberate go to. Tips and steps will likely be emailed upon reserving inquiry. Stroll-ins will not be entertained. For different considerations and questions, you may contact the administration by way of any of the next:

  • E-mail: onceislas@gmail.com
  • Landline: +63 62 9756341
  • Workplace: Turismo Native de Zamboanga, Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga Metropolis
  • Fb Web page: Turismo Zamboanga
  • Official Web site: www.destinozamboanga.com
Once Islas Tour Guide ZamboangaOnce Islas Tour Guide Zamboanga
Fast selfie muna with Sirna, our tour information at As soon as Islas

The leap off level is the Panubigan Ferry Terminal, roughly 1.5 hours from town heart.

Soar-off Level: Panubigan Ferry Terminal in Barangay Panubigan
Working Hours: Monday to Thursday & Saturday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Friday, CLOSED. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.

Island Tour Packages (Good for 9 Pax)

  • Island Cruise (Three Islands): P2,500
  • BiBa Route (Bisaya-Bisaya & Baung-Baung): P1,400
  • Sirommon Island Tour: P2,000
  • Bisaya-Bisaya Island Tour: P1,000
  • Baung-Baung Island Tour: P1,000

Different Charges: Entrance Price, P100/head; Environmental Price, P100/head; Information Price, P400/group; Cottage Price, P150/island; Crystal Kayaking, P300 (30 minutes)

Beneath are the accessible islands:

Bisaya-Bisaya Island

Bisaya-Bisaya Island Once Islas ZamboangaBisaya-Bisaya Island Once Islas Zamboanga

Bisaya-Bisaya Island is a two-faced island, with steep cliffs on one aspect however blanketed with nice white sand on the opposite. Its northern face is the place you’ll discover the sandy stretch, fringed with palm timber. From above, the seaside space resembles a boomerang on patch of grass. In between the timber are a couple of huts the place you would keep and revel in coconut juice, which is on the market on web site.

Not too distant is a smaller islet typically dubbed a toddler of Bisaya-Bisaya. This one’s typically extra rocky and jagged. It includes a small pure pool that will get stuffed by the waves at excessive tide.

Bisaya Bisaya Island ZamboangaBisaya Bisaya Island Zamboanga

Our information Sirna shared with us a folks story about two fishermen, a Christian and a Muslim, who as soon as stumbled upon the island that blessed them with fish. However the two didn’t agree on how they’d divide the ocean bounty — since one among them caught way more than the opposite — in order that they determined to go their very own means. In response to our information, “bisaya-bisaya” is the native time period for “kanya-kanya” or not sharing.

Baung-Baung Island

Baung-Baung Island Once Islas ZamboangaBaung-Baung Island Once Islas Zamboanga

Baung-Baung Island is an virtually rectangular island whose southwestern finish shimmers with its nice white sand. It’s normally the cease proper after Bisaya-Bisaya due to its proximity to it. Actually, Baung-Baung has a trekking path that can lead you to a viewpoint that affords an imposing view of Bisaya-Bisaya and the opposite islets round it. On Google Maps, it’s marked “Baong Island”.

Sirommon Island

Sirommon Island is the standard lunch cease for boat excursions; because of its spacious huts. It additionally has a large strip of white sand and a sand bar, which might be why most vacationers spend probably the most time right here. It’s additionally an ideal snorkeling cease.

Sirommon Island Once Islas ZamboangaSirommon Island Once Islas Zamboanga

Sirommon Island ZamboangaSirommon Island Zamboanga


El Museo de Zamboanga

El Museo de ZamboangaEl Museo de Zamboanga

El Museo de Zamboanga ought to be the primary cease of any metropolis tour. It affords a fast overview of the historical past and heritage of Zamboanga Metropolis, which explains a lot of what you’ll see as you go to extra locations by way of the day.

It has two galleries — the primary gallery, housing the everlasting exhibition, and one other one for the short-term or seasonal reveals. It showcases historic objects and artifacts that narrate the colourful story of the area, its individuals, and its wealthy tradition from the pre-colonial interval to the more moderen a long time. The museum is nestled within the in depth Pasonanca Park.

Location: Hardin Maria Clara Lobregat Complicated, Pasonanca Park, Pasonanca Highway, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Weekends & Holidays, CLOSED. Be aware that the schedule might change, so examine the official Fb web page for the newest replace earlier than going.
Entrance Price: Adults, P10; Minors/College students/Seniors, P5


Pasonanca Park & Scout Limbaga Campsite

Opened to the general public within the 1910s, the Pasonanca Park is one other inexperienced area for nature lovers and those that wish to have a fast escape from the a lot busier metropolis heart. It homes the Camp Limbaga (Scout Limbaga Campsite) with a conference heart, an amphitheater, an aviary, a floral backyard and butterfly sanctuary, and public swimming swimming pools — a kiddie pool, a pure pool, and an Olympic-size pool.

Pasonanca Park ZamboangaPasonanca Park Zamboanga

In all probability probably the most well-known attraction is the Pasonanca Treehouse. Constructed in 1960, it was initially constructed to function the Youth Citizenship Coaching Heart. In the present day, guests come right here to take photographs, however if you wish to spend extra time right here, you may hire the treehouse too! Be sure that to contact the LGU’s admin first to coordinate. You should buy meals alongside the best way from the sidestreet eating places, shops, and BBQ stands.

Opening Hours: Day by day, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.
Admission Price: FREE. The park itself is free, however the sights impose their very own entrance charges, normally starting from P10 to P25 per head.


Climaco Freedom Park

Previously often called Abong-Abong Park, the Climaco Freedom Park is located about seven kilometers north of town heart. It was named after the late Zamboanga Metropolis Mayor Cesar Climaco, an area hero who was assassinated in 1984. The park additionally serves as his remaining resting place.

Climaco Freedom ParkClimaco Freedom Park

The liberty park is a well-liked weekend vacation spot for the locals and one of many rising vacationer spots, attracting nature lovers of all ages. It encompasses a backyard, Chrislam Pool, Boy Scouts and Woman Scouts campsite, Heroes Hill, and the Holy Hill, which is the endpoint of the Station of the Cross trek.

A few of the issues to do listed below are swimming, climbing, trekking, biking, having a picnic, and happening a non secular pilgrimage and retreat.

Location: Climaco Freedom Park (Abong-Abong Park), Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: 24/7
Admission Price: P5-10


Fort Pilar Shrine and Museum

Additionally known as Fortaleza del Pilar, Fort Pilar dates again to the seventeenth century, initially serving as a Spanish navy protection publish. Quick ahead to the current, this bastioned fort is a serious historic landmark of town. Acknowledged as a Nationwide Cultural Treasure in 1973, the fort underwent restorations and is frequently maintained by town.

Fort Pilar ZamboangaFort Pilar Zamboanga

It cradles an open-air 18th-century Marian shrine — Our Woman of the Pillar — with an altar and stone seating for the devotees who wish to pray and replicate. On Sundays, monoblock chairs dot the world for the common mass.

Our Lady of the Pillar ZamboangaOur Lady of the Pillar Zamboanga

The fort additionally homes a regional department of the Nationwide Museum of the Philippines, the bells of the Sanctuary to the Woman of the Pillar, and a fountain. The fort is situated close to Paseo del Mar and Zamboanga State School of Marine Science and Know-how.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Avenue, Santa Barbara, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Fort Pilar Shrine – Day by day, 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Nationwide Museum Regional Department – Day by day, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.
Admission Price: FREE


ZSCMST Hen Sanctuary

Tucked throughout the Zamboanga State School of Marine Science and Know-how, only a stone’s throw from Fort Pilar and Paseo del Mar, the fowl sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers, notably fowl watchers.

Zamboanga Bird SanctuaryZamboanga Bird Sanctuary

The huge mangrove-fringed pond is a protected space, the place nice white egrets breed and thrive. Different migratory birds additionally frequent the positioning.

Two designated view decks are accessible for many who wish to spend a while right here. The very best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon, whereas one of the best months are November to March.

Location: Zamboanga State School of Marine Science and Know-how, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Day by day, 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Be aware that the visiting hours may change with out prior discover. Test with the ZSCMST administration for the up to date schedule.
Entrance Price: FREE


Paseo del Mar

Simply throughout Fort Pilar is Paseo del Mar, a waterfront leisure park going through the Basilan Strait. Other than the memento retailers, native meals distributors, and eateries, the newly renovated park added a kids’s playground and a skatepark, making it a favourite haunt place for the locals.

Paseo del Mar Sunset ZamboangaPaseo del Mar Sunset Zamboanga

It caters not simply to households, pals, and {couples} but additionally to those that wish to spend their alone time or me-time. A number of tables and chairs are organized for many who prefer to go meals tripping right here. Native dishes, snacks, and avenue fare can be found. Benches additionally line the boardwalk, the place sundown revelers lounge to look at the daylight paints the sky with a phenomenal gradient of colours because the day turns into night time.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Avenue, Santa Barbara, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Day by day, 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.
Admission Price: FREE


Canelar Barter Commerce Heart

OK, first issues first, regardless of the identify, you want money when purchasing right here so please put down no matter it’s you propose to commerce. 🤣 The identify is a nod to the buying and selling system of exchanging items that was broadly practiced on this a part of the world again within the day.

Canelar Barter Trade Center ZamboangaCanelar Barter Trade Center Zamboanga

In the present day, nonetheless, Canelar Barter Commerce Heart features identical to every other purchasing heart. Time to brush up in your haggling abilities while you dive into this purchasing paradise, tempting you with its low cost imported choices from the neighboring nations Indonesia and Malaysia.

Alongside native merchandise, a wide selection of imported items are offered right here — souvenirs, meals, garments, materials, devices, equipment, amongst others. Come up with your favourite Malaysian or Indonesian candies, espresso manufacturers (Outdated City Cofee and others), and milk tea (teh tarik) at comparatively cheaper costs. Lastly, don’t neglect to pause and breathe. Good? Okay. Let the second wave of haggling and negotiating start!

Location: Canelar Barter Commerce Heart, Wee Siu Tuy Avenue, Barangay Camino Nuevo, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Day by day, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.


Zamboanga Metropolis Corridor

Smack on the very coronary heart of town heart, the place well-preserved colonial buildings are clustered, the Zamboanga Metropolis Corridor is taken into account one of many essential heritage websites within the metropolis.

Zamboanga City HallZamboanga City Hall

Acknowledged as a Nationwide Historic Website, it was initially used because the official residence of the US Army Governor of the then Moro Province. In a while, it turned the federal government seat of the previous Zamboanga Province. It has been serving as the executive seat of Zamboanga Metropolis since 1937. Rizal Park or Plaza Rizal is simply throughout town corridor.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Avenue, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Sundays, CLOSED. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.


Yakan Weaving Village

Whereas in Zamboanga Metropolis, don’t go up the chance to take house one of the best tangible souvenirs you should buy — merchandise comprised of the beautiful Yakan material, which takes time to complete, relying on the intricacy of the designs and patterns. The Yakan are the standard inhabitants of Basilan and different areas on this a part of Mindanao.

Yakan Weaving Village ZamboangaYakan Weaving Village Zamboanga

Right here in Zamboanga Metropolis, you’ll discover the Yakan Weaving Village, which harbors native retailers promoting conventional merchandise and sensible equipment together with baggage, purses, pencil instances, and even yards of Yakan materials. You can even watch (or attempt for your self!) the standard strategy of Yakan weaving.

Location: Higher Calarian, Labuan – Limpapa Nationwide Highway, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Day by day, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Be aware that the schedule may change with out prior discover, so examine first earlier than going.


Curacha (Spanner Crabs)

Nope. We aren’t speaking in regards to the Filipino femme fatale film character performed by Rossana Roces nor precise cockroaches! Curacha means cockroach within the Chavacano language, however — earlier than you lose your urge for food — we’re not asking you to go full Concern Issue right here. As an alternative, we’re inviting you to have a style of probably the most mouth-watering crustaceans that Zamboanga has to supply — spanner crabs! (It received its identify due to its spiky look.)

Curacha with Alavar SauceCuracha with Alavar Sauce

So what’s it precisely? We’re speaking about Zamboanga’s gastronomic gem. Curacha seems just like the love little one of an enormous crab and a bushy lobster. Identified for its constant pink look, whether or not uncooked or cooked, it’s wanted as a result of it’s meatier than different crabs and packs extra taste. Fortunately, they thrive within the bosom of the Sulu Sea.

Your journey received’t be full with out attempting a dish or two. Alavar’s Seafood Restaurant is known for its curacha dish cooked in its equally in style specialty sauce.

If you wish to take some house, head over to Aderes Flea Market in Guiwan, the place you should purchase contemporary contemporary, raw curacha at a lower cost. Lobsters are additionally obtainable!

Curacha Aderes Flea Market Guiwan ZamboangaCuracha Aderes Flea Market Guiwan Zamboanga


Moro Delicacies

The Filipino Muslims, often known as the Moros, take satisfaction of their distinct delicacies. Though sharing some similarities with different components of the nation by way of seasonings and components like garlic, onions, and ginger, what make Moro delicacies completely different are different spices like turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime — that are extra generally utilized by our ASEAN neighbors. It additionally makes use of burnt or blackened coconut meat in some dishes.

Bay Tal Mal's Latal Moro CuisineBay Tal Mal's Latal Moro Cuisine

A few of the Moro faves are beef randang, piaparan, bakas, rooster pyanggang, pater, dodol, and lukatis. If you wish to pattern a number of dishes in a single sitting, the latal is your best option. It’s a platter of some native dishes of the area.

Each Bay Tal Mal (at SM Mindpro) and Dennis Espresso Backyard (close to the airport) have latal on their menu.


Knickerbocker

After a luxurious native Moro meals fest, finish it “sweetly” with a tall serving of Zamboanga’s iconic dessert — the knickerbocker.

Knickerbocker at Palmeras ZamboangaKnickerbocker at Palmeras Zamboanga

A what? A hybrid of fruit salad and halo-halo, Zamboanga’s knickerbocker normally combines slices of fruits, gelatin, and nata de coco. It’s then doused in milk and topped with a scoop of ice cream.

The Palmeras, often known as Hacienda de Palmeras, is alleged to be the house of the unique knickerbocker and is credited for inventing this refreshing dessert.


Satti and Avenue Meals

In fact! Any TPT journey isn’t full with out delving into the avenue meals scene! These on a regular basis accessible munchies inform so much in regards to the place, its individuals, and its tradition. You will discover avenue meals wherever, particularly in busy areas like the general public market and across the metropolis corridor.

Paseo del Mar has its share of avenue grubs and snacks. R.T. Lim Boulevard additionally hosts various avenue meals peddlers. A few of the streetfood selections are satay or “ihaw-ihaw”, pastil, sicalang, and lokot-lokot. However our favourite is mi goreng!

Satti ZamboangaSatti Zamboanga

However maybe probably the most iconic of all is satti, a breakfast favourite amongst locals. Satti is normally skewered beef or rooster, grilled after which served half-dipped in a bowl of spicy sauce with rice formed into cubes!

Once we requested the locals the place to seek out one of the best satti within the metropolis, all fingers pointed at Jimmy’s Satti. Sadly, we weren’t capable of attempt it, however we had our serving to from Dennis Espresso Backyard, which additionally serves satti.


Zamboanga Hermosa Competition

The town’s annual celebration of the Zamboanga Hermosa Competition is devoted to its patron saint La Virgen Nuestra Señora del Pilar. It’s a month-long festivity that takes place in October; the primary two weeks of that are normally full of actions, peaking within the second week, notably on the feast day of the patron saint, which is on the twelfth day of October.

One of many essential occasions is the Regatta de Zamboanga, a vinta race participated by tons of of vinta house owners and operators. All of the contributors are residents of Zamboanga.

Competition Date: Month of October


Taluksangay Mosque

If you happen to hint the roots of Islam in Zamboanga, they are going to almost certainly lead you to the coastal village of Taluksangay on the southeast coast of town. Right here, simply subsequent to the barangay corridor, stands a historic mosque. It’s believed that it’s right here that Islam started to unfold within the peninsula.

Taluksangay MosqueTaluksangay Mosque

Constructed in 1885 by Hadji Abdullah Maas Nuno, the Taluksangay Mosque is alleged to be the oldest in Western Mindanao and the primary in Zamboanga Peninsula. The mosque’s most recognizable options are the 2 minarets.

This off-route vacation spot is usually visited by Muslims and historical past buffs.

Location: Taluksangay Mosque, Barangay Taluksangay, Zamboanga Metropolis
Opening Hours: Guests can enter the mosque anytime EXCEPT throughout prayer occasions, which occur 5 occasions a day. It’s greatest to drop by the barangay corridor, which is situated simply beside the mosque. Please observe visiting guidelines and protocols.


Merloquet Falls

Positioned about two hours away from town heart, close to the boundary with Zamboanga Sibugay within the north and Zamboanga del Norte within the west, the magnificent two-tiered Merloquet Falls is thought to be probably the most stunning not solely within the area however within the nation. Essentially the most photographed is the large terraced drop, creating magical, intricate textured cascades as a substitute of only a easy straight drop.

The trail resulting in the falls is sort of developed with concrete roads and a delegated parking space for automobiles. On foot, the trek to the falls entails many cemented pathways and steps. Nonetheless, this will likely nonetheless be fairly troublesome for many who are bodily challenged.

There are a number of swimming areas, however thoughts your steps as a result of some components are slippery. The very best time to go to is within the moist/wet season.

Location: Merloquet Falls Highway, Barangay Sibulao, Zamboanga Metropolis
Admission Price: P15/pax
Habal-Habal Service: P500/pax (roundtrip)
Parking Price: Bike (Habal-Habal), P10; Automobile/Jeep, P20


Be taught Chavacano

Zamboanga is usually known as Asia’s Latin Metropolis due to the heavy Hispanic influences. And it’s most obvious in its most dominant language — Chavacano (or Chabacano), the one Spanish-based creole in Asia. It is sort of a mixture of Spanish and native languages, and it’s fairly fascinating!

Why not study Chavacano whereas in Zamboanga? Begin from the fundamentals reminiscent of greetings and helpful phrases that you should use whereas within the metropolis. It is usually a great way to work together with the locals and study extra about their tradition.

  • Welcome! = Bienvenidos!
  • Thanks very a lot. = Muchisimas Gracias.
  • Good morning! = Buenas Dias!
  • Good afternoon! = Buenas Tardes!
  • Good night! = Buenas Noches!
  • I’m sorry. = Perdona mi.
  • How a lot is that this? = Cuanto esté?

Adios!


Lodging in Zamboanga is way more inexpensive than in different extremely urbanized cities within the Philippines. Common fee for a double or twin room at a enterprise lodge ought to play inside P1500-P1800 per night time. However you could find a room for lower than P1500, even decrease when there are ongoing promos.

Ever O Business Hotel ZamboangaEver O Business Hotel Zamboanga
Twin Room at Ever O Enterprise Resort, Zamboanga Metropolis

We have now tried three completely different inns in Zamboanga and all of them had been first rate and nice:

In case you have an even bigger funds, you might also try these different properties within the space:


2025 2 6 – Up to date to replicate modifications in charges, opening hours, and different particulars
2023 12 31 – Up to date information
2022 6 3 – First uploaded

Phrases by: Asta Alvarez
Further phrases by: Yosh Dimen
Images by: Yosh Dimen & Vins Carlos

Disc: Elements of our journey (notably El Museo de Zamboanga, Zamboanga Metropolis Corridor, Taluksangay Mosque and As soon as Islas) had been made attainable by AirAsia by way of a media tour.


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